Pete Davidson has joked that men who date Kim Kardashian belong to an unofficial group of 'survivors' The former SNL star reflected on the intense media attention surrounding their relationship.
Speaking to Variety for a September 2026 cover story, Davidson described himself as 'one of the survivors — the few and the proud' before adding, 'We're like the Marines.' He was discussing the experience of dating Kardashian and becoming involved with a family whose personal lives have been documented extensively on reality television.
'A Tough Atmosphere if You Are Not Game'
Davidson said Kardashian's highly public lifestyle was difficult to navigate. He explained that this was because of the constant presence of photographers, security and public attention. However, he also stressed that Kardashian respected his boundaries during their relationship.
'That's a really tough atmosphere if you're not game,' Davidson said, adding that he found Kardashian and her family's acceptance of their public lifestyle 'attractive and mature'. He said he was never forced to take part in anything he did not want to do.
Davidson and Kardashian began dating in 2021 after meeting while appearing together on Saturday Night Live. They shared a kiss during a sketch in which they played Aladdin and Jasmine in October that year.
Their relationship quickly became a major subject of entertainment coverage. Kardashian was still legally married to Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, when she and Davidson began dating. Their relationship lasted approximately nine months before ending in 2022.
'We Are Cool'
Looking back, Davidson said the constant scrutiny surrounding Kardashian's lifestyle became difficult for him. He also referred to personal problems he was experiencing at the time, saying that the pressure of being followed and having to maintain security was particularly challenging.
Despite the difficulties, Davidson said there was no lasting hostility between him and Kardashian. 'But we're cool, and I have a lot of love for her,' he said, adding that he understood what he was getting into when they began dating.
Hostilities From Ye
Davidson also discussed the hostility he experienced from Ye during his relationship with Kardashian. He recalled being subjected to public attacks and said the experience had affected him.
The comedian expressed sympathy for the pressures Ye has faced in the public eye. Davidson said he had experienced only a fraction of the scrutiny faced by the rapper but believed sustained public pressure could affect people's behaviour.
The interview also addressed Davidson's wider reputation for high-profile relationships. The comedian has also dated Ariana Grande, Kate Beckinsale and other celebrities, but he said media coverage of his romantic life has overshadowed his professional work.
'It's been over a decade,' Davidson said, arguing that his career and relevance have been overlooked because of the continued focus on his relationships. He pointed to his nearly decade-long run on Saturday Night Live, film roles and stand-up career.
Davidson left Saturday Night Live in 2022 after eight seasons. Since then, he has appeared in films including Dumb Money and The Suicide Squad, while also starring in and creating the semi-autobiographical series Bupkis.
He is now focused on expanding his film career. Davidson stars in How to Rob a Bank, directed by David Leitch, with the film scheduled for release in November 2026.
